Holiday Reading

Happy Holidays!  This is a great time of year to relax and find the perfect read to keep you company.  That's what I plan to do.  I just ordered a new Kindle Paper White and I look forward to traveling with it and adding to my e-book collection!  Whether you choose an e-reader or a "real" book, please make time to read.  Parents, make time to read to and with your young children and be a role model for your teens. Better yet, make the season extra special and read as a family!  It's a great time to start a new family tradition and why not let it revolve around learning together and reading.  What better way to show your family that you love them!

This will likely be my last post of 2014 but I plan to hit the ground running in 2015.  I look forward to sharing my latest writing project, the launch of my new website and of course more encouragement to read!  Until then, have a safe and fun-filled holiday season.  Happy Holidays and Happy Reading!!

Thankful for Reading

The month of November is often viewed as a time for reflecting on the many reasons we have to be thankful.  On Facebook, many members use the entire month to site their various reasons for being grateful.  Has anyone ever considered the blessing that is the ability to read?  I may not be the first to say it, but I am extremely thankful for being able to read.

As a shy and somewhat awkward first grader, I remember being nervous about reading time.  During this era, a method known as Round Robin Reading was commonly acceptable.  Upon being called on by the teacher, students would take turns reading aloud.  I hated this!  For some time during these early years, I did not view my self as a good reader; because reading aloud in front of others scared me something awful.  I would stutter and stammer to complete my assigned reading and feel an overwhelming sense of relief when the teacher said, "Next".

During those days, I would have never thought that I would grow up with the love that I now have for reading.  Over the years, I improved and thankfully so did instructional practices.  By fourth grade, I was reading above grade level and by sixth grade I was truly an avid reader.

I do not know what separated me from other people who started out as fearful readers.  Why did I ultimately thrive?  What about my educational, social or family past created a pathway that would lead me to love reading the way I do today?  I may not have immediate answers to these questions but I do know is that I am extremely thankful for reading.  There are far too many who cannot say the same.  What I do know is that reading has been a God send for me.  It's an escape when I need one.  It provides valuable information when I'm curious; and most of all, its just plain fun!  If you love reading like I do, share the joy with the young people in your life.  Reading is truly a gift and a blessing.  Happy Reading!

Keep it Moving!

Reading and writing are both great loves of mine.  With each, my desire to embark ebbs and flows depending on the roller coaster that is the rest of my life.  Regardless, I believe it's important to keep it moving.  In terms of reading and writing, that simply means do a little each day or week.  I established a goal at the start of the year to read a book each month.  It's October and although I have read at least 10 books, I'm honestly not sure about the monthly rate of my reading and that's ok.  Did you set a reading or writing goal?  If so, how is it going?

Don't wait until the New Year to regroup or reset a goal!  Keep it moving.  Now.  It is perfectly fine regroup monthly, weekly or even daily.  Realistically, we must consider that life happens and to that end we must be flexible and make necessary adjustments.  Here are some tips that have worked for me to keep it moving:

1.  Be intentional.  If your goal is to read or write a certain amount each day or week, do it with intentionality.  It's great if your reading or writing is woven into your work day but if that is not truly your goal, acknowledge that and don't count it. This is hard for me and I am not always successful - which leads to Number 2.

2.  Be firm but flexible.  Know what you want or need to accomplish but take life into consideration.  For example, if you know that twice a week your work day is more than 12 hours, then do not schedule those days for writing or reading at the level that you would other days.  Could it be that you need a weekly goal rather than daily?  Decide what will work, set it and be firm in your resolve to be intentional.

3.  Reward success.  To do this, you must first decide what success looks like.  Once you determine that, be sure your reward matches the completed task.  Finishing reading or writing a chapter may not quite earn you a trip to Hawaii!  Decide what will and work your plan.

Keeping it moving is not easy but it is necessary.  The tips given can be applied to any goal that you seek to accomplish.  So what is your goal?  Keep it moving and Happy Reading!

Read to Lead

Serving in a variety of leadership positions, I have found that reading has been key to informing my practices and enhancing my skills and abilities.  Over the years, I have come to truly enjoy the work of several authors.  At the top of my list are Patrick Lencioni and John C. Maxwell. 

Lencioni writes with a unique style called leadership fables.  Using structures commonly found in fictional works, he weaves narratives that include complex characters, plot and even a true climax.  Of his books, I recommend Death by Meeting and the Five Dysfunctions of a Team.  The titles give some indication of the theme of each these selections that I deem worthy of reading and sharing with others.  Both could be used for team building or as a book study and the Five Dysfunctions of a Team has a handbook option for this purpose. Other notable Lencioni books address eliminating silos and recognizing the signs of a miserable job. Great topics and I thoroughly enjoy his writing style!

When I think of John C. Maxwell one word comes to mind: Inspiring!  He has written such a large number of thought-provoking and quality leadership books that it's difficult to summarize or pick a favorite. Yet I will try!  While serving as an elementary principal, I learned a great deal about leadership from reading and conducting a book study of the 360 Degree Leader.  My team and I learned a great deal about ourselves and those within our organization through our reading and discussions of this book.  Leadership 101, Relationships 101 and 25 Ways to Win with People are also highly recommended Maxwell books.  He is an exceptional writer and if you read leadership books at all, you have surely read his work.  What is your favorite Maxwell book?

As I continue my quest, to read a book a month I am looking forward to my October book, Lean In, Women, Work and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg.  Have you read it?  I would love to hear your thoughts!  I will share mine in the coming weeks and until then, Happy Reading!

Supporting Struggling Readers

In my experience, there are two types of kids:  those who love school and those who dread it.  Often, that sense of dread is related to academic performance.  Kids, just like you and me, need to feel successful and included.  Struggling readers commonly find themselves feeling overwhelmed, confused, inadequate and even isolated from their peers.  One of my favorite professional books, 40 Ways to Support Struggling Readers in Content Classrooms by Elaine K. McEwan, provides solutions for secondary teachers.

This is a great book and I do recommend it.  For the sake of this posting, I will focus on Chapter 4, Teach Students How to Infer.  Knowing how to draw an inference is a skill that many adults, teachers included, take for granted.  Yet being able to infer while reading can make the difference as to whether or not a student derives meaning from the point of the writing - or not. 

An inference can be as simple as a prediction of what will occur next. Some refer to it as "reading between the lines."  The author calls it "reading the author's mind".  As you may guess, the ability to infer is largely dependent upon a students' background and vocabulary knowledge.  There is research to support this claim and the author recommends giving students the opportunity to practice making inferences.  Here is a snapshot of how:

• Give students examples of inferences.  This can be done with the text or as a separate activity.  I am a strong believer that struggling readers need to make connections so a best practice is to find ways to give examples within the context of what is being read.
• Have students practice writing their own inferential statements.  Do several a day or as part of a warm-up or as an exit slip.  For variety, give them categories or questions and have them include inferences in their journal writing.
• Share inferential statements and questions in small groups.  Within the groups, students can then develop more inferences and additional questions.  This is an excellent way to share and expand background knowledge, especially if the groups are heterogeneous.
• Have fun with it!  Create a game of Bingo or use flashcards.  Make learning fun for your student and they will thank you by being more engaged as they demonstrate greater mastery or better yet, a joy for reading.

The ability to draw an inference is one of many skills needed to find joy in reading.  To learn more about helping struggling readers, read the book!  It's an excellent resource.  If you read it, let me know your thoughts about its usefulness in the classroom.  Happy Reading!

Big Kids Read Too: A Student's Perspective

When considering the concept of literacy, much emphasis is placed on early literacy and middle grades learners.  Of course this is with good reason because so many crucial skills and habits that influence adult literacy are developed during the formative years before a child turns 10.  Still, I'm excited to announce that big kids read too.  Many high school students live for a good book.  With e-readers being a way of life they often do not even have to resort to a flashlight under the covers that I remember so well.

I spoke to one of these young adult readers, my cousin Destiny.  She enjoys reading drama, mystery and horror books.  If a book really grabs her, she can read for hours, losing track of time.  Reading for pleasure is wonderful but what about required reading and being engaged academically?  Many high school students, avid readers or not, bore easily and will likely "check out" during a lecture about the merit of Shakespeare's work.

Destiny shared some outstanding ideas that will make a difference:

• Put on skits. Allow students to create skits that mirror their lives and connect to the text they are reading. Students will have fun while learning.  The skits can range from game shows, talk shows and even public service announcements.
• Add a visual component. Watching a movie may not be the best activity but adding movie clips or including related videos, interviews or news segments can increase student interest while also adding some real-world relevance.
• Make the discussion powerful.  Discussing a book can be dry if students are not engaged. Create powerful discussions that involve students by allowing them to write the questions, choose the question types or explore alternative ways to assess their knowledge.  Allow them to express how they learn best!

For younger kids who struggle with reading, Destiny suggests that they use their imagination and read different books until they decide what types they enjoy most.  Reading in groups is also helpful for young readers.  I appreciate Destiny's insight and wish her a successful senior year. Make us proud Destiny and Happy Reading!

My First Book: Welcome to Chase Shadows

I am so excited to announce the publication of my first book, Welcome to Chase Shadows.  Available on createspace.com & on amazon.com NOW, this collection of short stories is perfect for 3rd-6th grade readers.  Special thanks to my super-talented illustrator, Charles Hauser Jr. for his dedicated approach to his craft. He really brought the characters to life!

Here is brief description of the book:


Welcome to Chase Shadows gives you the opportunity to join firsthand in the lives of three siblings as they try to navigate the difficult task of growing up today.  Being thrust into a new social and school environment as a result of relocating can be hard enough, but add to this volatile mix bullying, childhood obesity and other issues kids are facing, and it can be a difficult road to navigate.  This realistic and honest portrayal highlights the issues kids are facing today, but also provides them with thoughtful and workable solutions that will encourage the young reader to think through the issues and come up with positive solutions.  Check out Jason, Janice, Stacy and the rest of the Chase Shadows bunch as they discover the true meaning of friendship and fun!

Note to teachers: Critical thinking and conflict resolution are absent from many curriculums today, so Chase Shadows fills in the gaps and is a great companion  piece for any text, book series or reading program. Excellent for character education and teaching writing.

I hope you will purchase a copy for every young person in your life and perhaps for the teachers you know as well.  No need to wait in line for this outstanding read!  It's available on createspace.com and on amazon.com now.  Just search Welcome to Chase Shadows.  Thank you in advance and Happy Reading!

Connecting the Dots

I've read and written a great deal about the importance of teaching literacy, especially early literacy.  There is no shortage of research in this area but what matters most in regards to impacting the literacy rates of our local communities?  How can we connect the dots and truly make a difference?

Simple questions yet we are addressing a severely complex issue.  Here are simple facts:

• Literacy - the ability to read and write - is essential to fully developing a sense of well-being and citizenship
• It's estimated that nearly 40% of the U.S. 4th graders do not achieve basic levels of reading proficiency.
• Students in low-income families perform significantly lower than their middle-income peers
• 75% of Americans who receive food assistance perform at the lowest 2 levels of literacy
• Reports show that literacy directly costs the healthcare industry over $70 million every year.
• 1 in 4 children in America grow up without learning to read proficiently

These are dire statistics.  As a servant leader, I am moved to think and act forwardly to impact the travesty of having so many children and adults who can not read or write proficiently.  Here are three ways that we can begin to connect the dots:

• Ensure that all young people have access to books.  Many children in poverty have no books at home and the number of families living in poverty is growing.  Donate your gently used books or purchase new books for schools or literacy centers.
• Become a Reading Buddy.  Reading aloud to children at an early age is the most effective way to help them attain literacy skills.  Reading also stimulates the imagination and improves vocabulary.
• Include writing in every reading experience.  Even a short journaling exercise will enhance understanding and improve writing skills.  Parents, teachers and volunteers to can do this.  There is a definite connection between reading and writing!

As students begin heading back to school, it's great time to get involved and learn how you can impact the literacy levels in your community.  There is certainly much work to be done!  Happy Reading!

How's YOUR Summer Reading Going?

Summer is a great time to get caught up on your reading but it's also an awesome time to renew your commitment to reading.  If you set s goal to begin reading a certain number books per month, take time now to reassess your goal.  Are you on track?  If you fell off, do you need to start over or reset your goal altogether?  Either way, forgive yourself and move on!  Life is too short not to enjoy a great summer read.

With that in mind, I have two recommendations:

• Blood Done Sign My Name: A True Story by Timothy B. Tyson.  This is an amazing account of personal family history as well as an examination of the Civil Rights Movement in the South. Set in various parts of North Carolina, Tyson recounts the tragic killing of a young black man in 1970.  The author moves seamlessly through time as he gives a historical account of race relations in the South and an details the roots of the issue of white supremacy during a tumultuous time in our nation's history.  I enjoyed his eloquent writing style and certainly learned a great deal as well.  Tyson, who is white, is the son of a progressive Methodist pastor and is now a professor of African-American studies.
• My Vision, My Plan, MY NOW! by Dr. Kreslyn Kelley, Sharon A. Myers, Mark Wiggins, et.al. I have this book on my Kindle and I can't wait to read it!  My dear sister-friend, Dr. Kreslyn Kelley is one of the phenomenal co-authors of this inspirational book.  The collaborative effort brings together expert motivational speakers and trainers who share stories, tips and techniques that will inspire the reader to become passionate about her vision.  If you're ready to finalize your plan and defeat your obstacles NOW, then this book is for you.  After reading it, be sure to check out their newest book, My Now for the Single Parent.

Still not inspired?  Then I encourage you find a local Freedom School or summer reading camp.  Get involved and make a difference by reading to or with a young child.  Also, be sure to take your e-reader of favorite books along with you to the beach or other vacations.  Enjoy your summer and Happy Reading!

I'm a Reading Buddy!

Across the nation, in schools in every type of community, you can find adults or older kids helping the little ones read.  Not as a teacher or parent but as a Reading Buddy!  This exciting program is an excellent way to not only help kids read, but to also build other literacy skills like speaking and listening.

The concept is quite simple.  Students are paired with adults or older kids. The Reading Buddy either reads to or with their student.  Many schools and districts have programs in place so that volunteers can sign up online, complete an application and background check.  Upon being cleared, the fun can begin! 

I am a summer Reading Buddy to two phenomenal second graders!  They are participating in a summer reading camp at a local elementary school.  Today they each were allowed to choose two books to keep and take home.  I enjoyed watching their excitement as they perused the tables of colorful book selections!  We started our reading today with one of the books that they chose.  It was fun for me and they seemed to really enjoy the one-on-one attention. 

If you are not already a Reading Buddy, check with your local school district to find out the process.  Now is a great time to inquire and then you can be set to begin when school resumes in the fall.  I promise you will not regret it!  Happy Reading!

What's your Favorite Genre?

When it comes to reading selections, our choices are many!  So what's your flavor?  A spicy, romance novel, a wildly adventurous Sci-Fi read, or maybe a light, and comical screen play (yes, screen plays can be read also!)?  The three broad classifications of literature, or genres, are drama, comedy and action-adventure.  The lines are blurred within all genres and there is much overlap.  Still as a reader,  how do you select your next book?  What's your favorite genre?

Classifying books by genre helps readers select stories that will keep them engaged! Are you surprised to know that Action/Adventure is the best selling genre?  It is also my favorite! I love that there is such variety within action/adventure. Think of the many teen novels such as the Hunger Games and the Twilight series or the many James Patterson novels which I absolutely love!  These books must have strong characters that draw the reader in.  Even more important is the well-woven plot with convincing conflicts that keep the story moving at a fast pace.  Dialogue is kept simple and is often direct and even obvious.  I enjoy this aspect because it makes for an easy, free-flowing read.

Within the action-adventure genre, there is also mystery, suspense and thrillers.  Growing up, my favorite author was Stephen King.  His thrillers such as Cujo and Christine gave me many hours of reading pleasure!

So what's your favorite genre?  Whatever it is I hope you are reading this summer and encouraging the young people in your life to do the same!  Happy Reading!

What about Writing?

Truly the term "literacy" has a number of definitions but there is no doubt that writing is an important literacy skill.  Writing well is not just an option for young people - it is a must!  Along with reading comprehension, writing skill is a predictor of academic success and a general necessity for functioning in civic life.  Unfortunately, many young people in the U.S. are unable to write at the most basic levels required by colleges and employers.

There is no shortage of data that reiterates this travesty. 

• According to the Alliance for Excellent Education (2006), every school day 7,000 young people drop out of schools, many of them because they lack the basic literacy skills to meet the increasing demands of the high school curriculum. 
• Seventy percent of students in grades 4-12 are low-achieving writers (Persky et al, 2003). 
• Nearly one third of high school graduates are not ready for college-level English composition (ACT, 2005).
• Poorly written applications are likely to doom candidates' chances for employment (National Commission on Writing, 2005).
• Thirty-five percent of high school graduates in college and 38% of high school graduates in the workforce feel their writing does not meet expectations for quality (Achieve, Inc, 2005).

Improving writing requires that one write!  Whether it's journaling, blogging or thank you notes, make it a point to write more and encourage the young people in your life to do the same.  Use complete sentences (no text abbreviations!) and use your imagination.  Write every day! 

Here is a link to an awesome site that gives some valuable strategies:  http://www.ehow.com/how_2111194_improve-writing-skills.html

The one tip from the above link that I love most emphasizes the need to read!  Reading and writing are so closely connected!  Reading expands your vocabulary which will also enhance writing skills.  Check out the link above and explore some of the other resources offered.  Writing well is such a valuable and necessary skill and practice makes perfect!  What have you written lately?  Please share and Happy Reading and Writing!

What is Racial Literacy?

One of my summer reads is titled Promoting Racial Literacy in Schools by  Howard C. Stevenson.  As I flip through the pages, I am quite curious about this term, "racial literacy".  I know that the term literacy is far reaching.  Once thought to refer to only reading and writing, the idea of literacy now encompasses knowledge and the possession of education in any given topic.

With that said, I would expect this book to delve into cultural and racial relevance as it impacts educating children.  It's interesting to me that in 2014 there seems to have been a reemergence of books that bring to light the idea of racial consciousness.  Some believe that this is no longer a needed concept in a world where Blacks are presented with so much opportunity.  What do you think?  I would argue that much of this opportunity is masked as equality. Perhaps this book will allow me to look at this idea through a new lens.  I will let you know!  In the meantime, Happy Reading!

A Message to Teachers - Part III

In previous blog posts, I addressed the role of teachers in teaching literacy to all students.  To recap:

There are several factors that are imperative in literacy classrooms of highly effective teachers:

• A culturally responsive approach
• A reading and writing rich environment; and
• High expectations for all students

Please review my earlier posts that detailed the importance of culturally responsive teaching and establishing a print rich environment.  Now, let's address the need to have high expectations for all students.  My belief is simple, "No one rises to low expectations".  I also believe in the self-fulfilling prophecy.  According to Wikipedia, a self-fulfilling prophecy is a "prediction that directly or indirectly causes itself to become true, by the very terms of the prophecy itself, due to positive (or negative) feedback between belief and behavior."  In other words, ideas become reality simply because someone believes them.

If a teacher or parent tells a child that they are a poor reader, over time this will likely cause that child to believe it as well.  As a result, the child actually displays and demonstrates that he is a poor reader.  This is why having high expectations is paramount.  Behaviors that reinforce low expectations include:

• Seating students away from the teacher.  Proximity matters and students, especially struggling readers, can easily feel isolated if they are seated a great distance from the teacher.
• Paying less attention.  All students crave attention.  Constantly calling on students who are perceived to be bright while neglecting others, sends a negative message to struggling readers. 
• Providing less wait time.  When teachers have low expectations they will often not wait for an answer or give the answer before the student can respond.  How would this make you feel?
• Criticizing more.  This is a blatant display of low expectations. If a child does not feel valued, he is less likely to pay attention and more likely to misbehave.  Our most disenfranchised students are often criticized by others in their life and certainly do not need to be subjected to this in a classroom.
• Smiling at them less.  There is research that shows that a teachers smile and other nonverbal behaviors, impacts students' perceptions and performance.  A smile is such a simple and welcoming gesture.  It can say "hello" and it can even say "I believe in you!" 

By focusing on doing the opposite of the list above, teachers can influence a child's desire to learn.  High expectations are a must for all students!  Struggling or reluctant readers need it even more.  Teachers, take care of your students.  Respect their culture because it tells you who they are.  Provide plenty of opportunities to read because more really is better.  And above all else, believe in them and teach them to believe in themselves!  Happy Reading!

Avoiding the Summer Slide

Many of my posts encourage parents to read to or with their children. Once our kids reach school-age though, much of the focus on reading shifts from home to the school.  This is not all bad, as teachers are great encouragers and motivators.  But what happens when summer hits?  How important is reading during that 2-3 month period when school is not in session?

Research shows that students who do not read or at least have access to books during the summer-break lose as much as two months of reading progress.  Two months is significant and the loss is often even greater for students in our most disenfranchised homes and communities.  During the early grades (grades 1-3), these losses can accumulate so that by middle school a child could be as much as two years behind.  This is true of all children, regardless of income level.  This loss of progress is known as the Summer Slide.  It is serious but it can be prevented.  Here's how!

• Participate in your school's summer reading program.  Many schools require or encourage that students read a certain number books during the summer.  Often there are specific  required books as students progress to middle and high school.  Your child's teacher is great resource so be sure to check in with him or her about specific reading needs and requirements.  Don't be afraid to go beyond the required books.  Depending on your child's reading level and speed, one to two books a week might be a great goal!
• Visit your local library.  Many libraries offer excellent summer reading opportunities.  Work with the librarian to find books that fit your child's interests and reading level.  Check out books that are above your child's reading level and create a time for bonding as you read to your child!
• Be the example for your child.  What better way to encourage reading than for your child to see you reading. This sends a valuable message.  Remember, you are your child's first teacher and most influential role model!
• Use technology to your advantage.  Many families have iPads and laptops that are great resources for interactive books or kid friendly apps.  For younger kids, find apps that address phonics and early literacy skills.  Make learning fun!

Have a safe and wonderful summer!  Remember, school stops for summer but learning never should.  Prevent the Summer Slide and know that your child's teacher will thank you for it.  Happy Reading!

A Message to Teachers: Part II

Teachers are by far some of my favorite people!  I love their creativity! As previously mentioned, I believe that all teachers are literacy teachers and I say this fully aware that this is a huge charge.  To effectively reach and teach all students, creative teachers must:

• Teach through a culturally responsive approach
• Provide a reading and writing rich environment; and
• Hold all students to high expectations

Please see Part I of this series for insight on culturally responsive teaching.  In this post, I want to examine the power of providing a reading and writing rich environment or what's commonly known as a print rich environment.  Ask.com states that "a print rich environment is an environment whereby both reading and writing are used for a wide variety of day to day purposes."  This means that reading and writing are an authentic part of the classroom setting and students are exposed to both, giving them many opportunities to read and write.

These opportunities are vital to the acquisition of early literacy skills.  Research shows that effective teachers believe that a print-rich environment is necessary for children to learn literacy.  According to Instructional Lead Teacher, Cassondra Heilig, "A reading and writing rich environment is crucial for student learning."  These environments are created with text materials such as books, student work, anchor charts, word walls, maps, reading, writing and listening centers, school information posters and even classroom rules.

A supportive, inviting and attractive classroom environment is a must for motivating and involving students in reading.  There is a clear relationship between classroom environments and literacy-related behaviors and learning.  In classrooms that are too sterile - or worse - overly cluttered and unorganized, students tend to take on the qualities of their setting.  They are less likely to take care of their learning materials and more likely to feel justified in doing so.

In contrast, a supportive, print rich environment aids in learning.  Heilig adds that, "A reading rich environment creates a love for reading in children. While in early elementary, children learn to read. They are able to take those same reading skills and use them to read and learn once they are older." 

Clearly, the learning environment has a powerful impact on student learning! With that said, the entire classroom should encourage reading, writing and talking which will support children's literacy development. Creative teachers are doing this and I thank them for their dedication to student literacy.  Happy Reading!

 

A Student's Perspective: Part I

For years there has been a literacy gap in the U.S. between males and females.  Based on my previous blog entries, I'm sure it's no surprise that the gap is even wider for African American boys than other sub-groups.  Research on this issue identifies quite a few possible reasons for this gap to include:

• Inadequate early literacy experiences
• Inattention to their learning styles
• Racism and stereotyping in schools
• Lack of male role models

I have witnessed each of the above issues in various educational settings. Yet, I have also seen many young black male students thrive and soar to great heights!  I decided to ask one of my former students about his experiences with reading.  Justin is currently a freshmen at Appalachian State University.  While in high school, he was an elite athlete but also cared deeply about his grades and his future.

Justin knows that reading matters.  "Reading is very important.  Pretty much everything in life has to do with reading," he stated.  He is exactly right.  Reading is essential to a complete life.  Without it, students and adults alike are destined to struggle in our ever evolving global society.

Schools have a responsibility to all students; but Justin knows that his greatest influence and support came from home.  When asked, Justin shared that, "Not my teachers so much but my mom had a huge influence on me with reading.  She would always make me read an hour a day."  Great job mom!

Without a doubt, parents are in the best position to ensure the success of their children.  Providing a place for reading and then holding kids accountable as Justin's mom did are sure ways to arm our young men with tools for success.  It's unfortunate that this does not always happen.

The literacy gap is real.  But why?  Why do so many of our young men underperform?  Justin believes "They perform so low because some of them don't treat school as a priority anymore.  They don't care about school."  Sadly, many black male students feel this way as early as 4th or 5th grade. 
I appreciate Justin's input and I am so very proud of him for setting such an excellent example. Great things lie ahead for him!

I'm a firm believer that each one should teach one.  The literacy gap is daunting but each one of us can have an impact. If you are reading this, you can make a difference!  Will you?  Think about it and act on it!  Until next time...Happy Reading!

Knowledge is Power!

Recently, as I reviewed student assessment data, I had the glaring reminder that so many of our young people struggle with reading and processing informational text.  By effectively reading informational text, students can gain a tremendous amount of knowledge about the world in which we live.  That knowledge is power but first we must READ!

Informational text is a subset of nonfiction meant to inform the reader.  Although nonfiction and informational text are sometimes used interchangeably, there is a difference.  The main purpose of informational text is to convey information about the natural or social world.  Generally, it is written by someone who demonstrates knowledge on the given topic.  It often consists of technical language and linguistic features that causes it to be more difficult than other texts for many of our students.

Being able to read informational text effectively is a fundamental quality of successful readers.  To do so, some students need additional support.  This support can come in the form of:

• Using graphic organizers to engage student thinking and to assist them in processing the structure of informational text.
• Supplement reading with writing.  When student learn to write informational text, they increase their familiarity and confidence in delving into reading this other challenging type of text.
• Do it daily.  Use elements of informational text as a bell ringer or an exit slip.  These quick formative assessments will strengthen students ability to work through longer, more complex readings.
• Explicitly teach comprehension strategies.  This should be done in every classroom, not just English, Language Arts, Literature, etc. All teachers are literacy teachers!

Speaking of informational text, let me introduce my April book.  This month I am reading How to Teach Students Who Don't Look Like You: Culturally Responsive Teaching Strategies by Bonnie M. Davis.  I want to determine if it will be included in my list of book recommendations for secondary school teachers.  If you have read it, I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Whether you are a teacher, a parent, a mentor or a friend, please continue to support the young people in your life.  Encourage them to read because knowledge is power.  Happy Reading!

No Time to Read?

Say it isn't so?!  Aside from being fun, reading is so important for a plethora of reasons. Yet, I too am guilty of not having time to read.  In life, we make time for what matters most to us; because, let's face it, we are all busy.  Yet we all have 24 hours in each and every day to use how we choose.  So here are a few tips to get back on track if you have fallen by the wayside!

1.  Set a routine.  Most of us are creatures of habit.  By setting aside a specific time of the day to read, you are much more likely to follow through consistently.  Being spontaneous is a great trait but it often makes attaining a goal that requires time difficult.

2.  Be realistic in your reading goal.  Make an honest assessment of your time and your current priorities.  If you know that you have evening activities more than 3-4 days per week, then perhaps your reading time should be in the mornings or at some other point in the day.  By being realistic on the offset, you will improve your chances of success.

3.  Choose books that you WANT to read!  This is the most important strategy of all.  I relish the feeling of rushing to pick up that book, anxious to see what happens next.  During the month of March, I made the mistake of choosing a book that did not engage my interest. I tried to force it, but it just did not fit how I wanted to spend my time.  When this happens, unless it is required reading, give yourself permission to move on. 

Time is our most precious commodity!  Use it wisely.  Later this week, I will introduce my April selection.  Until then, Happy Reading!

A Message to Teachers - Part I

Teachers - what is your role as a literacy teacher?  Some teachers believe that because they teach math, business education or any given high school course that they are not literacy teachers.  Some teachers are wrong!  Literacy encompasses the foundational skill set that makes all other learning possible.  Students with weak literacy skills are destined to struggle.

There are several factors that are imperative in literacy classrooms of highly effective teachers:

• A culturally responsive approach
• A reading and writing rich environment; and
• High expectations for all students

What does it mean to be culturally responsive?  Please do not correlate culturally responsive teaching with just another education catch phrase or as just "one more thing" that teachers have to do.  Being culturally responsive means that, as a teacher, you have a student-centered approach to teaching whereby the students' unique cultural strengths are identified and nurtured to promote student achievement and a sense of well-being.  Arguably, I believe that it is vital that teachers connect and develop relationships with their students.  How can this happen if you do not truly know your students?

To know your students, you must acknowledge their culture.  Culture is the totality of ideas, beliefs, values, activities and knowledge of a group or individuals who share common backgrounds.  Think of culture as an iceberg.  Many cultural attributes are obvious on the surface.  Yet about 9/10 of what makes a person who they are is seen beneath the surface.

 

So what are teachers to do?  Teachers must be intentional in their efforts to learn about their students and then respect and honor the cultural differences that students bring into the classroom. Before that can happen, a teacher must first know who he/she is.  With which racial/ethnic group do you most identify?  What about your upbringing defines who you are?  What biases do you bring into the classroom with you each day?  How comfortable are you with students who do not look like you or who identify with a different racial/ethic group?

 

Needless to say there are large bodies of research on the topic of culture and culturally responsive teaching.  Next month I am reading How to Teach Students Who Don't Look Like You by Bonnie Davis.  I will share my thoughts and address the other areas mentioned above in a future post.  In the meantime, I encourage all teachers to look within and then pick up a book and read.  Are you doing all that you can as a literacy teacher?  Remember, all teachers are literacy teachers!  Happy Reading!



A Message to Parents - Part II

Do you realize that as a parent, you are your child's first teacher?!  This is at once a challenge and a beautiful thing.  As children enter school, parents must understand that teachers do not have all of the answers and in fact we, teachers, rely on parents to a large extent to assist us in ensuring your child is successful.  This is especially true during those crucial early childhood years.

In a previous blog entry, I addressed the importance of reading to and with your child during those vital early years.  Did you know that incorporating daily routines involving reading can enhance your child's ability to concentrate and increase his academic discipline?  Initially, toddlers may squirm and lack focus.  He may be easily distracted.  Over time though, he will learn to sit and listen as you read a book in its entirety.  Along with reading comprehension comes a stronger self-discipline, an increased attention span and improved memory retention.  All of these attributes will impact your child positively when he enters school.

Being a teacher is a phenomenal honor and an enormous responsibility.  Being your child's FIRST teacher is the best gift that you can give your child.  His kindergarten teacher will thank you!  Happy Reading!

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!

In celebration of Dr. Seuss' birthday, today is the 17th annual Read Across America Day!  This week kicks off a week of reading across the nation as educators, parents, volunteers, mentors and others come together to share their love of reading!  In considering this day, I can't help but reminisce about some of my favorite Dr. Seuss books.  In no particular order, I absolutely LOVED:

• The Cat in the Hat
• Horton Hatches the Egg
• Horton Hears a Who
• Green Eggs and Ham
• The Lorax; and
• How the Grinch Stole Christmas

What were your favorite Dr. Seuss books?  What memories do you have of reading or being read to from the many fun and colorful Dr. Seuss books?  Have you shared and help create these kinds of  memories for your kids or other young people?  If not, you should!  Happy Reading!

This is Not a Game!

Greetings! My March book selection is titled A Game Called Salisbury by Susan Barringer Wells. This book, hardly about a game, is a historical account of Southern tragedy and the myths of race in my hometown, Salisbury, NC.  Before I delve into this though, let me share my thoughts of one of my February books, Stepping Down by Michelle Stimpson.

This Christian fiction piece is a tale of a dedicated pastor, Mark, attempting to balance his commitment to his church and his roles as husband and father.  To add a bit of drama, his wife, Sharla, is harboring a secret that could potentially disrupt their lives and his position as pastor of New Vision Church.  This book read well and I enjoyed it.  I did anticipate the "drama" to be a bit more intense and life-changing. Still, it maintained my attention and had a positive and spiritually uplifting flow that I appreciated.  Want to know more?  Read the book!

This month, I'm moving to a much heavier and surely more difficult read.  I grew up in Salisbury, NC but left home for the Army right after high school.  Moving back home recently made me realize that I know very little about the history of my hometown.  Hence, my interest in A Game Called Salisbury.  Upon perusal, I discovered that this book will recount the events surrounding the murders of several citizens and the subsequent lynches of the suspected killers.  The author brings a unique perspective, as she explores her own family lineage and the roles played by her ancestors. 

I am stepping out of my comfort zone in reading this book.  First because it is a non-fiction, informational text but also due to the subject matter being extremely weighty.  I'm excited that my cousin Denise and my sister Felisa have decided to read it as well! I look forward to our discussions and to learning together! Feel free to join us.

  Reading is fun but in this case, it is also a serious endeavor. This is not a game.  Happy Reading!

Literacy Changes Lives

Did you know that 90 million Americans have trouble reading and writing?  Thirty-six million American adults can't read better than the average 3rd grader.  Without valuable literacy skills such as reading, writing, math and computer skills families struggle with employment, health and providing even basic support.  These statistics are daunting, but there is help available and plenty of room if you want to work to counter the effects that illiteracy has on our communities and nation,.

Tonight I attended an orientation session to become an adult literacy tutor.  The Rowan County Literacy Council (RCLC) provides free instruction for adults in a one-on-one setting with trained tutors.  Volunteers are needed to make this possible and I'm excited about pursuing this area of service. North Carolina ranks 41st in the nation in literacy and 1 in 5 adults in Rowan County are literacy deprived.

At our meeting tonight, a gentlemen in his 70s shared his story with the group.  After struggling with being illiterate through primary and secondary school and his adult life, he decided at the age of 59 that he wanted to learn to read.  For many years, he believed he was not smart enough to read.  Through the attention and support provided by RCLC tutors he learned to read, studied for and attained his GED and is now a volunteer tutor and a budding author!  Today he makes school visits and frequently reads to and shares his story with students.  Reading changed his life.

When adults can't read their lives and the lives of their families are greatly impacted.  Think about all of the activities that you do on a daily basis that require reading, from grocery shopping to driving, filling a prescription, completing a job application and even helping kids with their homework.  What if you could not read?  Illiteracy causes people to lose a sense of self-worth and face a lifetime of diminished productivity and potential.  Sadly, if not addressed, it can become yet another generational curse.

There is hope and help available!  RCLC, a member of the ProLiteracy network, is always in need of volunteer tutors.  No teaching experience is needed.  If you are in the Rowan County area call 704-216-8266.  Outside of the area, check out the ProLiteracy website at proliteracy.org.  The site provides tons of information about the impact that educating the adult population will have on our global society. You can also find locations of a literacy council near you.  Literacy changes lives and YOU can be a part of it. 

Until next time, Happy Reading!

A Message to Parents - Part I

It's no big secret that reading to our young children is important.  Many parents believe that intelligence is an essential trait that they would like to develop in their child or children. As parents, don't we all want children who are smart and successful in school?  My message to parents is this: You do have the power to boost your child's learning potential by simply making reading a part of your family's daily life.

Reading to toddlers and preschoolers provides fantastic academic benefits.  Research shows that students who are exposed to reading before preschool are more likely to do well in all facets of formal education.  It makes sense.  Students who struggle in reading and understanding words and sentences will likely struggle in grasping math, science and social studies concepts once he is in elementary school.  Reading develops a higher aptitude for learning in general; thereby improving a child's potential of success in all content areas.

Learning the fundamentals of language is key to early academic growth.  Reading to and with our kids improves a child's ability and increases the rate at which this happens. Language development is one attribute that ultimately separates students who achieve and those who struggle.  I believe that lack of language development is also a key reason that the academic achievement gap continues to plague our children of color.

It's not all about intelligence and language though! Reading to your young child is a great way to bond and build a relationship.  In doing so, you and your little one will learn so much about each other as you explore common interests and develop new ones.  So snuggle up with a good book and enjoy some nurturing time together.

Don't have young children?  Well pass this information along to others.  Knowledge is power but it means so much more when it's shared!  Happy Reading! 

Why I LOVE To Read!

It's Valentine's Day and what better day to discuss the LOVE of reading!  Although I was not what one would consider an "early reader", I recall enjoying reading since about 4th or 5th grade. My reasons for loving to read are many and have evolved through the years.  Here are my top five:

• Reading helps me relax! What better way to end an eventful day than with a great book or even an interesting article.  Reading helps me "turn off" the negativity of a crazy day and ease into a more relaxing state! This is not just a feeling but there is research to support the power of reading to relax the brain!
• Reading stimulates my imagination!  We are never too old to be imaginative.  In fact, as we get older, it is more vital than ever than we engage in activities that keep our mind active and therefore young!
• I learn so much from reading!  Although I love reading fiction for pleasure, much of my knowledge has been gained or at least guided by printed text.  As an educator, or any other professional, information is plentiful and reading has been a key for me as I work to remain current in best practices and what others are doing to make a difference!  Part of my learning has also come from an increased vocabulary.  I learn many new and interesting words by reading!
• Reading helps improve my critical thinking skills!  This is so key. In the fast-paced world in which we all live being able to think and process critically can make an enormous difference. There is a large body of research that indicates that reading heightens the connectivity in left temporal cortex of the brain.  This is the area of the brain which is associated with receptivity for language. The results of this stimulation can make a difference when I have to think "on my feet"!
• Reading teaches me many thing about myself! By reading and reflecting, I have learned and grown extensively.  What I can learn about life and about myself has no boundaries through the pathway of reading!

So why do YOU love reading?  Please share! Happy Valentine's Day and Happy Reading!

Practice What You Read

The purpose of reading can be quite varied.  Do you read for pleasure, or maybe even as a "guilty" pleasure?  Do you read for information?  Do you read for self-improvement?  Is your reading a requirement?  I tend to read for all of the aforementioned reasons!  This month, I chose one book for pleasure and one for self-improvement.

Reading Peaks and Valleys by Spencer Johnson, MD was a fulfilling experience.  The idea of the book is simple: making good and bad times work for you - at work and in life.  Much like Johnson's bestseller, Who Moved My Cheese, Peaks and Valleys is told through the lens of a friend giving advice to another.  In doing so, the reader is given a clear understanding of how to get out of our valley sooner and stay on our peak longer.  Although it became a bit repetitive towards the end, it was still a good read and one that I can take aspects of and put into practice in my life.  If your life is not perfect and you've wondered how to change its course, then this book may provide some useful insight!  One aspect that I loved was the emphasis on sharing the Peaks and Valleys way of thinking.  It could certainly make a difference in someone's life and I plan to share it with others.  Want to know more?  Read the book!

Next, I am reading an e-book, Stepping Down by Michelle Stimpson. It is Christian fiction, which I only enjoy if there is some "spice'! I will share my thoughts in a later post!

In the meantime,  a few things to think about:

• Are you practicing what you read? 
• How does your reading impact your life?
• If variety is the spice of life, do you vary the purpose of your reading?
• Have you encouraged a young person to read lately?  If not, you should!

Until next time...Happy Reading!

Reading Buddies

Greetings!  I have chosen two books to read during the month of February: Peaks and Valleys by Spencer Johnson, MD, and Stepping Down by Michelle Stimpson.  I started reading Peaks and Valleys yesterday and I'm excited that my sister is reading it as well. We have already had several thought-provoking conversations about how we can apply the principles that the author has imparted.

Reading with others is a great way to increase the engagement and enjoyment of reading.  Although I am not currently in a book club, I thoroughly love to discuss my readings with others.  That's one reason that I started this blog!  By having dialogue with others the reader is able to:

• Increase their level of understanding by delving deeper into the subject matter
• Make real-world connections with the text.  This is possible even with fictional text!
• Practice using new vocabulary or concepts from the reading.  This is vital when reading informational text but again, it can also apply to fictional reading.
• Meet reading goals by establishing accountability partners.
• Have fun!  Whether you create a friendly competition or just enjoy the time, reading can be a shared experience for friends, couples and families!

Even as adults, we are not too old to have Reading Buddies.  Get ya one!! Happy Reading!

Are you REALLY a Life-Long Learner?

As I finished up Dr. Tatum's book, Teaching Reading to Black Adolescent Males, the final chapter really caused me to switch gears a bit.  The title is "Conducting Teacher Inquiries" and Tatum calls this the "final strand for creating nesting grounds where literacy of black adolescent males can flourish".  We hear terms like "inquiry-based learning" quite a bit in education but how many of us are truly engaged and invested in using this method ourselves?

Teacher inquiry is basically action research.  Often when I'm presenting at conferences or even to principals, the resounding question is, "Why can't  you give us some strategies that we can use now?"  If only it were that simple.  Whether you're an educator, a parent, activist or concerned citizen you are in a position to conduct your own action research to seek answers and enough information to begin to form your own strategies for working with struggling readers.  As Tatum emphasized, "there are no black-male only research-based reading strategies."  Regardless of race or academic achievement level, reading strategies are the same for all students.  So what's the answer?

One thing that I learned during my doctoral studies is that it is perfectly fine not to have all the answers.  In fact, true learning takes place when we encounter problems and challenges and take time to grapple with them.  Reflecting on our own practices, collecting data to inform us, collaborating with colleagues, talking to students, sharing findings with others and of course READING are all useful forms of action research. 

If you consider yourself to be a life-long learner, then engaging in these practices are a natural extension of your work!  So I ask, are you REALLY a life-long learner?  How do you know?

Reading and the Black Adolescent Male

For many years, there has been what we educators call an Achievement Gap.  Achievement test data is disaggregated based on race, gender, socioeconomic status, etc. This data is then compared and Black students consistently show achievement levels that are significantly lower than their non-Black counterparts.  The gap is even more pronounced when looking specifically at our Black male students.  Why is this the case?

Let's dig into this issue as it relates to reading.  My January book is Teaching Reading to Black Adolescent Males by Dr. Alfred Tatum. Tatum takes this issue head on, addressing the fact that many of our Black male students live in environments wrought with turmoil. He writes that "the general turmoil engendered by poverty and domestic violence in my family could have had a negative effect on my literacy development."  Tatum was fortunate to have encountered a number of outstanding teachers who encouraged reading and made it relevant to him thereby changing his thinking patterns.

Making reading relevant to Black male students can be a challenge if the the young man is a reluctant reader or a struggling reader.  Educators and parents have to be intentional in their text selection and then ensure that the discussions connect back to the child's real life.  Making this connection should include acknowledging the turmoil and feelings of inferiority that may exist.  Having these discussions requires the teacher to possess a certain boldness along with vulnerability. The students must not only feel empowered to speak their truth but also safe and free of judgement in doing so.  There are plenty of novels that could be read to make this type of discussion possible but it is often more effective to partner them with shorter reads.

Some of the shorter texts suggested by Tatum include:

"Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass" by Frederick Douglass
"America" and "If We Must Die" by Claude McKay
"Mother to Son" by Langston Hughes
"A Black Man Talks of Reaping" by Arna Bontemps
"A Man Who was Almost a Man" by Richard Wright; and
"SOS" by Amiri Baraka

If you want to learn more about Tatum's approach to teaching reading to Black males, read the book!  In the meantime, if you are an educator, ask yourself, "Am I doing my part to impact ALL students who struggle with reading?"  Are you doing the RIGHT things to engage Black male students? For everyone, what needs to change in our educational system to end this achievement gap?  Finally, where does home fit in?

I want to hear your thoughts!  In the meantime, Happy Reading!

Reading Matters

As a child, you could not tear a book out of my hands!  Yes, I was that girl standing in the lunch line trying to finish just one more chapter, paragraph or sentence in my latest read.  Reading took me places that were beyond explanation and I treasure the fact that to this day I still have a true passion for the written word.

Reading is one activity or hobby that almost guarantees that you will learn something new everyday.  So why do more people not read?  Many adults who read as children can now go years without picking up a book.  Life takes over and there is no doubt that we are busy people.  We are busy people who need to find a way back to our books!

Education professor, Anne E. Cunningham wrote in a research paper that reading frequently actually makes you smarter.  This is true in part because reading helps with knowledge retention.  Would you believe that reading can even increase math skills? As I blog weekly, I will explore more reasons to read and share insights on how to encourage our young people to read more. 

In the meantime, I encourage you to make it your goal to read at least one book a month!  That's my current goal because, like many of you, I have found that I read less and less each year.  I have missed reading immensely, but baby I'm back! I look forward to sharing my books with you and hearing about yours.  Happy Reading!